A nurse is creating a plan of care for a child who has sickle cell anemia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Discourage a high level of fluid intake.
Administer meperidine every 4 hr for pain.
Apply cold compresses to painful, swollen joints.
Observe for indications of hypokalemia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Discouraging a high level of fluid intake is incorrect, as hydration is essential for preventing sickle cell crises and reducing blood viscosity. The nurse should encourage the child to drink at least 1.5 times the normal fluid requirement.
Choice B reason: Administering meperidine every 4 hr for pain is incorrect, as meperidine is not recommended for sickle cell pain due to the risk of neurotoxicity and seizures. The nurse should use other opioids such as morphine or hydromorphone for pain management.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to painful, swollen joints is incorrect, as cold can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the sickling of red blood cells. The nurse should use warm compresses or heating pads to promote vasodilation and blood flow.
Choice D reason: Observing for indications of hypokalemia is correct, as sickle cell anemia can cause hemolysis and potassium loss. The nurse should monitor the child's serum potassium level and watch for signs of hypokalemia such as muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tremors are not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose. Tremors are more commonly associated with hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose, as the body releases adrenaline to stimulate the release of glucose from the liver. Tremors may also be caused by anxiety, caffeine, or certain medications.
Choice B reason: Shallow respirations are not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, unless the child has developed diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body breaks down fat for energy and produces ketones, which are acidic substances that can cause metabolic acidosis. In DKA, the child may have rapid and deep breathing, also known as Kussmaul respirations, as the body tries to eliminate excess carbon dioxide and acid. However, DKA usually occurs when the blood glucose level is above 300 mg/dL, and the child may also have other signs and symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity breath, and confusion.
Choice C reason: Pallor is not a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, as the blood flow to the skin is not affected by high blood glucose. Pallor is more commonly associated with anemia, shock, or hypoxia, which are conditions that reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood or the blood flow to the tissues.
Choice D reason: Lethargy is a likely finding in a child with hyperglycemia, as high blood glucose can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and impaired brain function. The child may feel tired, weak, and drowsy, and have difficulty concentrating or staying awake. Lethargy may also indicate that the child is at risk of developing DKA, which can lead to coma and death if not treated promptly.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min is within the normal range for a child, depending on their age. It does not indicate respiratory distress or asthma exacerbation.
Choice B reason: Wheezes in the lower lobes are a sign of airway obstruction and inflammation due to asthma. They indicate that the child may need additional medication or intervention to relieve their symptoms. The nurse should report this finding to the provider.
Choice C reason: An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range for a child. It does not indicate hypoxia or impaired gas exchange due to asthma.
Choice D reason: A peak expiratory flow rate of 80% of personal best is considered a green zone result, meaning that the child's asthma is well controlled. It does not indicate a need for change in the child's asthma action plan.
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